Bird feeders are designed with specific birds in mind.
Feeding preferences of birds are as varied as the species themselves. The first
step in choosing the right feeder is determining the birds you want to attract
to your yard or habitat. Use your field guild for bird identification. If you
don't have one, visit an online field guide at
eNature.com.
Determine the bird's favorite seed and what kind of feeder it prefers. Some
birds like to feed from handing feeders, while others prefer platform type
feeders. If you are planning to attract goldfinches for instance, you would
want a hanging type feeder. A hanging thistle feeder would be the ideal
choice. The small feeding ports in a thistle feeder prevent larger birds from
"hogging" the seed. If pigeons are a problem, you want to select a feeder
that would prevent or at least deter pigeons form taking over the feeder.
Larger birds such as blue jays enjoy a platform feeder with plenty of room for
sunflower seeds and peanuts in the shell. Platforms are a great way to serve up
stale bakery products, bread, and pieces of fruit. Cedar feeders are durable
and add a rustic look to your habitat.

Many good choices in feeders are available locally at your
local Wal-Mart or similar store. For a more specialized selection, there are
many great mail order catalogues available. Don't forget to look around at
craft shows, fairs, and specialty shops for hand crafted feeders. There are
beautiful hand crafted feeders available at these locations. Online, I suggest
Audubon Workshop as well as
Duncraft and
Wildwood Farms.
Heritage Farms also offers great feeders. I have personally purchased
feeders from all of these merchants and was very well pleased.

Maybe you should take a look at just where your feeders
are located. Birds feed at different levels, so it stands to reason that
feeders placed at various heights will attract more birds, and help create
better harmony at the feeders. Birds prefer to feed in the morning and a
sheltered southeastern exposure will provide the birds with the best feeding
conditions in the morning hours. Locate the feeders near the shelter of shrubs
and trees offering a means of escape if necessary. Avoid placing feeders near
thick undergrowth where a lurking cat may be hiding. Feeders designed for
placement on windowsills are ideal for close up bird watching. Books such as
National Audubon Society North American Birdfeeder Handbook offer many
suggestions that will help you succeed with bird feeding.

Feeders such as suet feeders, hummingbird feeders,
platform feeders, thistle feeders, hanging feeders, and squirrel feeders that
are designed to hold a specific type of feed are specialty feeders. Many birds
have preferences as to what level they like to feed, and whether the feeder is
stationary or hanging. This is a trial and error area, and you just keep trying
until you discover what they really like.